Whenever you Google a business and immediately find a convenient company profile with a description of the business, it’s address and contact details as well as images of the brand and other additional details, you’re looking at a business profile powered by Google Business- a platform you may be surprised to find is completely free, easy to register with and accessible to you and your business.
Google My Business is a powerful tool for businesses to manage their online presence across the internet. It is one of the most essential tools for and improving your businesses search engine optimization (SEO) and online exposure. It not only allows you to verify your business, add important details like hours and address, and even respond to customer reviews but it also helps to determine your local ranking amongst other businesses in your field and area. In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the process of getting your business on Google, including the different verification methods and common reasons for rejection.
Step 1: Create a Google My Business Account #
– Go to Google My Business and sign in with your Google account.
– Enter your business name and address.
– Select the category that best describes your business.
Step 2: Verify Your Business #
Google will ask you to verify your business through one of several methods:
- Postcard verification: Google will send a postcard to your business address with a verification code.
- Phone verification: Google will call your business phone number with a verification code.
- Email verification: Google will send a verification email to your business email address.
- Video verification: Google will ask you to record a video of your business location and upload it to YouTube.
- Instant verification: If you’ve already verified your business through Google Search Console, you may be eligible for instant verification.
Verification Methods: #
Postcard verification:This is the most common method. Google will send a postcard to your business address with a verification code. You’ll need to enter the code on your Google My Business account to complete verification.
Phone verification: Google will call your business phone number with a verification code. You’ll need to answer the call and enter the code on your Google My Business account.
Email verification: Google will send a verification email to your business email address. You’ll need to click on the verification link in the email to complete verification.
Video verification: Google will ask you to record a video of your business location and upload it to YouTube. The video should show the exterior and interior of your business, as well as any signage or branding. You’ll need to provide the YouTube link on your Google My Business account.
Instant verification: If you’ve already verified your business through Google Search Console, you may be eligible for instant verification. This method skips the need for a verification code.
Reasons Google may have rejected your business:
Google may reject your business if:
– The address is not a physical location (e.g. PO box).
– The business is not verifiable (e.g. online-only business).
– The business is not legitimate (e.g. fake or spam business).
– The verification code is not entered correctly.
Why is getting my business on Google My Business so important?
–Increase brand visibility
-Building trust, credibility and reputability
-Google My Business helps customers find your business online.
– You can manage your business hours, address, and contact information across Google.
– You can respond to customer reviews and ratings. – You can add photos and videos to showcase your business. – You can use Google My Business Insights to track customer engagement and analytics. Conclusion: Getting your business on Google My Business is an important step in managing your online presence. By following these steps and understanding the verification methods, you can ensure that your business is accurately represented across Google. Remember to keep your business information up-to-date and respond to customer reviews to get the most out of Google My Business.
